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China's Huangpi Lake sees spectacular "Bird Wave" as winter migration peaks

China

China

China

China's Huangpi Lake sees spectacular "Bird Wave" as winter migration peaks

2026-01-11 17:48 Last Updated At:20:37

The Huangpi Lake Wetland in Hefei City, east China's Anhui Province, now hosts the dramatic annual winter "bird wave," transforming into a breathtaking stage for massive flocks of migratory birds in synchronized flight.

As one of nature's most impressive aerial spectacles, tens of thousands of migratory birds have recently descended upon the lake, creating vast, fluid formations that ripple across the water at dusk and dawn.

Seen from afar, the flocks resemble drifting ribbons of silk or a colossal mythical fish gliding through the sky. Against the clear winter sky and the warm glow of sunset, their precise, synchronized flights weave ever-changing patterns over the serene lake, breathing vibrant life into the scene.

As a vital stopover along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, Huangpi Lake marks the height of its birdwatching season from late November through February each year. The most striking "bird waves" are typically observed during the gentle light of early morning and late afternoon.

By December 2025, over 100,000 wintering birds from 137 species have been recorded here, turning the wetland into a bustling haven for avian life and a visual feast for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

China's Huangpi Lake sees spectacular "Bird Wave" as winter migration peaks

China's Huangpi Lake sees spectacular "Bird Wave" as winter migration peaks

The Bayannur section of the Yellow River in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region became fully frozen as of 07:00 Sunday, officially entering its stable winter ice period.

Freezing of the river commenced on December 4, 2025, but repeated thawing and refreezing driven by temperature fluctuations and higher water flow postponed a full, stable freeze-over. The entire process lasted 48 days, 29 days longer than the previous year, making it the longest freezing period for this section in recent years.

In response to the extended and volatile freezing process, local authorities in Bayannur City and districts along the river have intensified their ice-jam prevention efforts. Officials have been conducting thorough inspections to identify and manage any potential obstacles within the river channel that could contribute to dangerous ice dams.

To ensure safety and stability during the frozen season, a 24-hour monitoring and patrol system has been implemented along the riverbanks to watch for any signs of ice-related hazards.

Inner Mongolia section of Yellow River enters stable ice period after 48 days

Inner Mongolia section of Yellow River enters stable ice period after 48 days

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